OCR Text |
Show selected should provide for the long- term sustainability of lake resources without prematurely eliminating options. Much of the past habitat management strategies have emphasized diking and water augmentation and control. We have lost much of the natural dynamic ofGSL wetlands particularly saline, shallow water areas that are only wet on a seasonal basis. The management philosophy should recognize the importance of these saline play as and wet meadows. Non- game species are as deserving as game species in regard to habitat protection and management. The presence of a continuously changing shoreline of GSL due to changes in water levels provides for the habitat needs of many bird species. Therefore, consideration of this phenomenon and its impact upon avian species is recognized by DWR. To ensure sustainable resource use, managers must realize the need to balance short- term economic gains with long- term maintenance of lake dependent revenue streams. DNR welcomes reasoned critique of the preferred alternative from this perspective. Ensuring sustainability of the resources can only be accomplished by restoring the natural range of variation that shaped this ecosystem. Restoring the natural flow of brines is the first step and the most obvious. Ecological restoration of other areas, avoidance and minimization of any future impacts to the system should follow in order to restore balance in this ecosystem. It is clearly important to analyze the impacts of differences in salinity in the various bays of the lake. The north arm is so saline that only bacteria exist in the water in meaningful abundance. Brine shrimp and the birds that feed upon them do not currently exist in the north arm, except for isolated circumstances. Degradation of wildlife habitat values by development has resulted in negative impacts to lake wildlife, such as birds. Wise planning and management decisions can preclude or lessen these impacts. Ensuring sustainable use of the lake requires research and monitoring. How can we manage something, when we don't really know how it works? The draft alternatives contain no provisions for maintaining or increasing the scope and intensity of research effort on GSL. Once effects are known it is possible to alter management activities to better meet the goal of long- term ecological sustainability. DWR established the GSLEP in 1996 to study and manage wildlife resources of the lake. Several research projects are currently under way. Findings will be used to improve management and direct future research needs. Caution will be exercised when making decisions so the resource receives the benefit of doubt. The ability of GSL wetlands to maintain viable wildlife populations and support large migratory birdftyways should be emphasized and carefully considered during project planning. 306 |